Division of Transplantation

Information for Transplant Recipients

Diet

There will be many changes in your diet as your kidney achieves normal function. There are, however, several guidelines which you must follow:

You may eat a full regular diet with no fluid restrictions. It is important that you drink plenty of water to keep your kidney well flushed.

You do not have to follow a restricted sodium diet, however, you should not add any additional salt to your food.

You must continue to follow your prescribed diabetic diet if you are diabetic.

Cholesterol

Some of the anti-rejection medications you must take after transplant may raise your cholesterol. You should limit your intake of fatty foods such as red meat or fried foods in order to keep your cholesterol under control.

Potassium

Sometimes your potassium will increase in the early weeks after transplant. If so, we may ask you to avoid high potassium foods such as bananas or orange juice during this time.

Prednisone

Prednisone is a steroid which you must take to maintain your transplant. One of the side effects of Prednisone is that it tends to increase your appetite. This can easily lead to an increase in your weight. Many people report that their appetite cannot be satisfied no matter how much they eat (diabetics are familiar with this feeling). It is, therefore, wise to enjoy the improved taste of food after transplant with an eye on weight control.

Weight

Weigh yourself every day wearing the same amount of clothing and at the same time (before breakfast) for the first one (1) month. After the first month, weigh yourself two (2) times a week. If you gain or lose more than two (2) pounds in one day, or six (6) pounds in one week, call the Transplant Nurse Practitioner.